[bigbob]

I’ve long thought that the best way to survive under “survival” conditions is not to rely on stockpiles (which will eventually run out) or protecting what you have by force (you’ll eventually run out of ammo or get caught by surprise) but rather by having a skill that will be valued sufficiently that others will be happy to give you what you need.

Think of the old time country doctor who may not have been wealthy but never went hungry. Your brain is the best possible survival tool

[Niuhuru]

You’re entirely correct in your views. A REAL skill is going to be the only way to survive. It’s how it’s always been.

[Tammy8]

I agree that your brain and bartering is what will make the difference in long-term survival. I do think people need to have stockpiles of vital foods in order to survive until the process of bartering kicks in. I think there will be a messy learning curve for most people that have no concept of trading skills. Everyone will need to be able to survive the short-term turmoil before long-term survival will be a possiblity.

[Polynikes]

I believe your are correct. People who have a years stockpile of supplies last for about a year. Don't get me wrong I applaud their initiative but supplies eventually run down. Knowledge and skills are at least if not more valuable.
Thinking outside the box will be at a premium. I am surprised at some people who cannot do this. AS a previous poster said knowing how to work with copper tubing and sugar can be valuable, just saying :~).
Also this guy in Argentina has some hands on experience in this sort thing
http://ferfal.blogspot.com/

[handmade]

the best way to survive...

You are right on target- learning skills our grandparents used all the time to make and grow and what have you are going to go farther than anything else. Most people today do not know homesteading skills much less how to use them.

Food storage for things like unemployment or illness yes- as a way to maintain longstanding food supply, not so much.

[going hot]

Your brain is the best possible survival tool

Always has been, always will be. Lose your cool, and you lose, period. It is what makes us what we are, and the best tool that exists. Everything else is merely an accessory

[The Duke]

I’ve long thought that the best way to survive under “survival” conditions is not to rely on stockpiles (which will eventually run out) or protecting what you have by force (you’ll eventually run out of ammo or get caught by surprise) but rather by having a skill that will be valued sufficiently that others will be happy to give you what you need.

You may need the food to survive long enough to gain all the needed knowledge, or to ramp up the business.